Fort Hood Apache Helicopter Crash Kills Two, Sparks Wildfire in Texas

An AH-64 Apache helicopter crash near Fort Hood, Texas, resulted in two fatalities and caused a wildfire that forced evacuations and emergency response. The helicopter went down in a field near Salado, approximately 30 minutes from Fort Hood, according to Bell County Sheriff’s Office spokesman Cliff Coleman.

The incident occurred around 1:34 p.m. The crash location, noted by local media as off Dove Hollow Lane, saw immediate firefighting efforts from various agencies. Coleman described the crash as violent and confirmed the loss of two lives, though no one else was reported injured.

Initially uncertain, Fort Hood confirmed that the aircraft belonged to their base. The identities of the deceased are not disclosed, and the cause of the crash remains under investigation. Brig. Gen. Ethan Diven emphasized the priority of securing the crash site and supporting initial response efforts.

The crash ignited a significant wildfire, necessitating road closures and evacuations in the area. Coleman mentioned that the fire remained uncontrolled as of 4 p.m. ET, with specific roadways like Farm to Market Road 2843 being closed near the crash site.

“Our immediate priority is securing the site and supporting the initial response efforts,” said Brig. Gen. Ethan Diven.

Local authorities, including Salado Fire/Bell County ESD #1, battled the “major grass fire” and advised the public to avoid the area for safety and to facilitate emergency operations. Drivers were warned against driving near or around emergency vehicles.

Fort Hood is conducting an investigation into the crash, though further details about the incident remain undisclosed. Additional updates and information will be provided as they become available.

Republican congressional candidate Abhiram Garapati sent his prayers to those involved in the crash and those affected by the fire. Fort Hood has not released any further information about the crew involved.

Stepheny Price, a Fox News writer, focuses on West Coast and Midwest news, as well as national and international crime stories.